Why Your Oral Surgeon Wants to Know if You Ever Get Ringing in Your Ears
Posted on 10/15/2025 by Pacific Maxillofacial Center |
 Have you ever experienced a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in your ears that isn't caused by external noise? This condition, known as tinnitus, can be a nuisance and even disrupt your daily life. While it's often associated with hearing loss, tinnitus can also be a symptom of other underlying health conditions.
As an oral surgeon, I'm particularly interested in the potential connection between tinnitus and oral health. While many people don't realize it, the health of your mouth and ears are closely intertwined.
The Connection Between Oral Health and Tinnitus
The bones in your jaw and skull are directly connected to the tiny bones in your middle ear. These bones are responsible for transmitting sound vibrations to the inner ear, where they are converted into electrical signals that your brain interprets as sound.
When there are problems with your jaw joint or the surrounding muscles, it can affect the alignment and function of the middle ear bones. This can lead to a variety of problems, including tinnitus.
Common Oral Causes of Tinnitus
Several oral conditions can contribute to tinnitus, including:
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Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: TMJ disorders occur when the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull doesn't function properly. This can cause pain, clicking, and popping sounds, as well as tinnitus. |
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Misaligned bite: If your teeth don't come together properly when you bite down, it can put stress on your jaw joint and the surrounding muscles, leading to tinnitus. |
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Missing teeth: When you lose teeth, the remaining teeth can shift, which can also put stress on your jaw joint and contribute to tinnitus. |
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Dental restorations: In some cases, dental restorations such as crowns or fillings can cause changes in your bite, which can lead to tinnitus. |
What to Do if You Experience Tinnitus
If you experience tinnitus, it's important to see an oral surgeon for a comprehensive evaluation. We will perform a thorough examination of your mouth and jaw to identify any potential underlying causes of your tinnitus.
Depending on the cause of your tinnitus, treatment options may include:
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TMJ therapy: If your tinnitus is caused by a TMJ disorder, treatment may include physical therapy, medication, or in some cases, surgery. |
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Orthodontics: If your tinnitus is caused by a misaligned bite, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct the alignment of your teeth. |
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Dental restorations: If your tinnitus is caused by dental restorations, adjustments or replacements may be needed. |
The Importance of Oral Care for Overall Health
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for preventing tinnitus and other oral health problems. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
By taking care of your oral health, you can not only prevent tinnitus but also improve your overall health and well-being. If you experience any symptoms of tinnitus, don't hesitate to see an oral surgeon for an evaluation.
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